The Best Museums in Houston

Houston, Texas, is one of the most diverse and eclectic cities in the country. Where better to explore and gain new cultural experiences than here? If you’re looking for some of the best museums in Houston, there’s a convenient Museum District in the heart of the city that can direct you to 19 different sites in four walkable zones. Within these zones, you’ll find some incredible attractions, from the iconic and must-see Rothko Chapel to the adventurous Houston Zoo. But among the many sites to discover, the real stars of the district are the museums.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a great educational and interactive destination to get your science fix. It was founded in the early 20th century and has diversified and expanded over the past century. The museum features approximately 17 permanent collections that range from well-loved Texas wildlife to exotic ancient Egyptian artifacts and a closet of curiosities. Among the broad spectrum of exhibits, many people who come to this museum love the Morian Hall of Paleontology, which showcases more than 60 dinosaur skeletal mounts in dynamic poses. Another fan favorite is the Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, which features an impressive array of more than 450 mineral specimens.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Located at the center of the district, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is considerably one of the largest art museums in America, and some even argue that it’s one of best. Exhibition spaces boast an impressive collection spanning nearly 700,000 works of art, including drawings, films, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and antiques. Some of these pieces are sourced from around the world, allowing the museum to introduce new and diverse cultures to locals and tourists.

Children’s Museum Houston

If you have children coming along for the ride, the Children’s Museum Houston is a unique and informative cultural experience for them. It opened in 1992 and annually welcomes more than 1 million visitors, both children and adults. Consistently rated as one of the top museums for children in the U.S., this inviting place aims to help support parents’ engagement in their children’s learning development. With a selection of age-targeted exhibits, such as the EcoStation, the Challenge Course, and Kidtropolis, USA, the museum provides children with a fun and entertaining learning experience that engages not just their mental fortitude, but their social skills and physical strength, as well.

Wrapping Up

These are just some of the top museums in the district. If time permits, feel free to explore all the notable museums in Houston, Texas, such as The Menil Collection and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. There’s truly so much to discover in this city, which makes it a top destination all year round.